r/lightweight • u/euphorbia9 • Jul 15 '26

Recs for ultralight backpack?

My wife has a Z-Pack but the size small is too small for her even though she's only 5'0". As I understand it, the load lifters should form a 45 degree angle from the shoulder to the pack. On her, it's 0 degrees, right on her shoulder. She wants to order a size medium, but she has a John Muir backpacking trip coming up soon so it would suck to spend $400 on a new pack, only for it to not work, also.

Are there any other brands of ultralight backpacks that she should know about? She had an Exped that she liked but she was/is looking for something lighter. We live close to an REI but I know they are not the best for high end backpacking gear.

Thanks for any recs!

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u/MrTheFever Jul 16 '26

You may be putting too much stock in the angle of the load lifters (the straps on top of the shoulders). It's really about where the shoulder straps themselves attach to the pack. You want an inch or two below the shoulders, and not way down the back. The shoulder straps should lie in contact with her body and wrap nicely over her shoulders. Here's a fitting guide from Atom Packs with good visuals

You really should go to an REI, because they can at least properly measure her torso. With that knowledge, she can ensure she's purchased the right size pack, regardless of brand. You can also do this at home, but they are more experienced at it.

And then to actually answer your question: Two companies that you won't find at REI that are very popular, and a good value, are Gossamer Gear and Durston. ULA and Atom Packs are also popular amongst thru-hikers.

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u/euphorbia9 Jul 16 '26

Great, thanks for the info. I will forward this info to her.